verb

compute

kum-PYOOT/kəmˈpjuːt/

To calculate a result, especially using a computer.

The older man computes the sum by pressing keys on his calculator.

An older man calculates a simple addition on a large desktop calculator; its readable arithmetic display and his finger pressing the equals key make calculation visible rather than merely suggesting computer use.

Etymology

+puteLatinto reckon; originally to prune

Together and reckon combine as 'reckon together' or 'sum up,' directly connecting the pieces to calculation. Compute and count share this same Latin ancestor.

In context

TehPhysicalist3:28

just guess the equations the problem is only to compute the answers so that they agree with experiment

Feynman: Knowing versus Understanding

More examples

We compute the average by dividing the total by five.
She computed the interest on her savings.
Computing the area requires the room's length and width.

Forms

compute · computes · computed · computing

computation noun — The process of calculating a result.

computer noun — An electronic device that processes data.

Similar words

calculate: The closest equivalent, equally natural for mental or machine calculations.
estimate: Finds an approximate value rather than an exact result.